In recent years, with the rapid advancement of **3D printing technology**, its application in clinical medicine has become increasingly widespread. This innovative technique offers unique advantages such as **rapid prototyping**, the ability to create precise digital models for personalized manufacturing, and the capacity to produce complex shapes efficiently. These features allow for the customization of surgical tools tailored to individual patient needs, addressing variations among patients more effectively.
At Tongren Hospital, ophthalmologists have started using 3D printing to design custom scalpels that better suit their personal preferences and improve surgical outcomes. The concept of a **personalized scalpel** is gaining traction, especially in specialized fields where precision is critical.
Known in academic circles as **additive manufacturing**, 3D printing differs from traditional methods like cutting or molding. Instead, it builds objects layer by layer using materials, allowing for high levels of customization and complexity. As Dr. Qi Peng from the Beijing Computing Center explains, medical applications often require individualized solutions—both for patients and for healthcare providers.
With 3D printing, doctors can obtain detailed patient data and use it to plan surgeries and design tools accordingly. This approach ensures that devices are not only functional but also optimized for specific cases. For instance, the angle of a scalpel’s blade plays a crucial role in its effectiveness. By adjusting this angle, surgeons can enhance both comfort and success rates during procedures.
The process of creating a custom scalpel is surprisingly efficient. According to Qi Xiaopeng, the entire design and printing process can be completed in just a few hours. A digital model is created quickly, followed by a rapid prototype in about 30 minutes. This speed is vital, as many patients undergo surgery within a week of admission, leaving little time for traditional manufacturing methods.
Another key factor in the success of 3D printing in medicine is the development of suitable **materials and forming technologies**. There are four main categories of materials used: non-biological ones for models and instruments, biocompatible materials for implants, biodegradable materials that support tissue regeneration, and living cells for advanced biological research.
Among the various forming technologies, **polyjet** stands out for its precision and performance. It uses photosensitive resins that are cured by ultraviolet light, allowing for highly detailed and accurate prints. This method was used to produce the customized scalpel at Tongren Hospital. The polyjet process involves two types of resin—one for the main structure and another as a support material, which can be easily removed after printing.
However, despite its potential, 3D printing in the medical field still faces significant challenges. In China, there is no established regulatory framework or safety evaluation system for 3D-printed medical devices. According to the "Measures for the Administration of Medical Device Registration," any clinical research involving these devices must be approved by the CFDA before proceeding. As a result, most 3D-printed medical tools are still limited to experimental use rather than routine clinical practice.
Qi Xiaopeng acknowledges that while the technology holds great promise, the materials and core technologies required for 3D printing are still under development. Domestic 3D printers lack the advanced capabilities seen in foreign systems, and many key technologies remain patented abroad. This limits the widespread adoption of the technology in China.
Overall, 3D printing is revolutionizing the medical field, offering new possibilities for personalized treatment and improved surgical outcomes. However, for it to reach its full potential, continued innovation, regulatory support, and collaboration across disciplines will be essential.
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